Legislation creates new high school diplomas, course plans

The state Senate has made quick work of legislation supported by Gov. Pat McCrory to create new kinds of high school diplomas and course plans that emphasize vocational or career paths that don't require four-year college degrees.

The Senate voted unanimously Thursday for the bill now heading to the House.

The bill directs the State Board of Education to require, beginning with the 2014-15 school year, that diplomas carry new seals endorsing graduates as "career ready," ''college ready" or both, depending on their courses.

Career and technical teacher licensing requirements also would be revised to help develop more teachers in those fields.

The measure fits into McCrory's campaign platform that not all students must attend traditional colleges to obtain well-paying jobs.